OVERVIEW: Arctic prioritizes giving in Anchorage, Alaska and the Arctic Slope region. It invests in arts and culture, education, health and human services, and the preservation of the Iñupiat language and culture.

FUNDING AREAS: Arts and culture, education (related to culture, language, and art), health and human services, the preservation of the Iñupiat language and culture

IP TAKE: Arctic Slope has an accessible application process. Grantmaking is awarded broadly throughout the region. Applicants do not necessarily need to be part of the Iñupiat culture to apply for a grant. This funder does not typically provide general operating support, professional development grants, reimbursement for purchased items, or any grants to individuals.

PROFILE: Founded in 2010, the Arctic Slope Community Foundation is based in Anchorage, Alaska. It was launched with major contributions from North Slope Borough, Conoco Philips, GCI, British Petroleum, Era Aviation, and Shell. The foundation ultimately seeks to “strengthen our culture of giving and improve the quality of life among the people of the Arctic Slope.” Arctic Slope pursues this mission through traditional Iñupiat values and a culture of volunteerism, sharing, and community awareness. This foundation supports a wide range of interests that benefit the Arctic Slope region of Alaska. Specific funding includes arts and culture, education (related to culture, language, and art), health and human services, and the preservation of the Iñupiat language and culture

Specific rules apply for grants depending on whether applicants seek less than $10,000, between $10,000 and $25,000, or over $25,000. The higher the amount, the more information is required. Arctic Slope invests in organizations across the Arctic region, and sometimes beyond it within Alaska. Past grantees include Atqasuk Volunteer Search and Rescue for equipment upgrades, City of Point Hope for a mentor/apprentice upgrades, Iḷisaġvik College for camps, and Motor Mushers for a safety training course. The foundation funds nonprofits, governmental agencies, and federally recognized tribes. Groups that already receive widespread support in the community given are often given priority by the Arctic Slope Community Foundation. Some funding also goes towards equipment purchases, art supplies, sports equipment, musical instruments, vehicles, books, and technology.

Grantseekers can download the application forms on the funder’s website. There are no grant application deadlines, and you can submit an application without any initial letter of inquiry required at any time of the year. Applications must be mailed to the attention of the executive director, Sharon Thompson. Grantseekers can reach the foundation with general questions at 907-339-6026 or info@arcticslopecommunity.org.